Understand the place.
Begin with the setting, the daily patterns and the things that are not working. A good brief describes what matters before it prescribes a form.
Starting point / aims, constraints, priorities
Approach
A clear process.
An open mind.
Explore the possibilities.
Test the plan through a small number of clear directions. Look at light, movement, use and material together, rather than treating them as separate decisions.
Working material / plans, spatial studies, material direction
Resolve the detail.
Bring the chosen direction into a coherent set of decisions. Interfaces, thresholds and built-in elements receive the same attention as the larger room.
Focus / coordination, materials, detailed intent
Keep the intent clear.
A project needs a shared record of what was decided and why. Scope, responsibilities and any specialist input are agreed for the individual project.
Before a commission / written scope and appropriate professional review
Where we can begin
Homes & rooms
New arrangements, additions and whole-home studies. From one difficult room to a different way of living.
Start a living-space brief ↗Work & shared space
Places to focus, gather and make. A studio, a shared room, or a new use for an existing shell.
Start a workspace brief ↗